Hi, I haven't been here in years probably. I have a small CM (can't remember the figure). My main symptoms have always been headaches at the base of my skull.

I get the usual icepick to the back of the head if I laugh too hard, strain when I have a BM, sneeze too hard....you know the drill.

But last night was just terrible....I'm on the verge of bronchitis and had a two minute long coughing fit. My head started to hurt a little (not unexpected) but I was able to go to sleep. Within a few hours, though, I was up and it felt like the back of my head was going to explode at any second. The pressure and the pain was SO intense!!

This happens on a minor scale several times a year but I can usually feel it coming on and 4 Motrin usually takes care of it before it gets too bad.

Last night, that's what I took but it was almost 45 minutes before I felt any relief. I was almost ready to go to the ER.

The neurologist who re-confirmed my diagnosis a few years back, didn't do anything besides re-diagnose me. I don't think there are any specialists in Spokane, WA.

Can any of you give me advice on how to handle this type of pain or prevent it in the future? I don't know if I can go through that again.

First of all, I feel your pain...literally! You are not alone in this, and hopefully others will see this post and give you any of their advice.

The only thing Ive ever found that works is having a very heavy-duty prescription cough syrup to prevent coughing fits- I have the same reaction you have with extended coughing/straining. It's just awful, and I feel for you. I don't know anything about experts in Washington, but maybe do a search in the forums for Washington and see if anyone else has mentioned good doctors.

Just another voice to let you know I know how you feel! I can get that way straining- (which I do alot) from the stupid constipation from pain meds. Honestly, the thing thats helped me is lying down with that perfect pillow under the curve of the neck. I think ice seems to help me too. I would assume it's a build up of csf fluid, and I would try to get another specialist who will do an mri! It's important, as much as we might not want to- but we need to keep up with what's going on inside there! Are you willing to travel for a specialist? Good luck, Tracy